SILENTDALE 

AN ORIGINAL DRAMA IN FIVE ACTS 




BY T H E O. B. BEACH 



SILENTDALE 



An Original Drama 
in Five Acts 




BY 



THEO. B. BEACH 






l.fbJKARYof CSONQRESS! 
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En ered according to Act of Congress, in the year 190'), by 

Theodore B, Beach 

In the office of the Librarian of Congress at Washington, D. C. 



^attatuck press 

THE WATERBURY BLANK BOOK MFG. CO. 
WATERBURY, CONN. 



Cast q/ Cha.raLcters 



Rev. Mr. Newcommer The new minister 

Azariah Tompkins Village Merchant 

Ben Hammer Clerk at the store 

E. Searl Hanford A pretended gentleman 

Bill Manns A trapper 

Deacon Goodall A retired farmer 

Sylvanus Letterbee Postmaster 

E. C. Henderson A banker 

Sam Tompkin's colored man 

Monroe Stage driver 

Willie ) e u u 

^ I bmall boys 

James j 

Holdup A detective 

Sarah Tompkins Just returned from boarding school 

Amanda Tompkins Wife of Azariah, mother of Sarah 

Ruth Ormsbee Village school teacher 

Widow Stopwell Well to do. Keeps boarders for company 

Ethel Henderson Daughter of E. C. Henderson 



Cost\imes 



NEWCOMMER— Act I— At church bell ringing— Wear blue flannel 
trousers, light colored coat with collar turned up, soft felt hat pulled down. 
At picnic — Blue flannel suit, white vest and white tie with straw hat. 

ACT II — Same make-up except vest color of suit, derby hat. 

ACT IV — Strictly clerical Prince Albert dark colored suit, white tie. 

TOMPKINS — ACT I — Short linen coat, light colored trousers, loose cut, 
red colored handkerchief about his neck, straw hat. At picnic — Same trous- 
ers black coat, soft black hat, collar and black tie Same make-up in house 
scene. Third and Fourth Acts. 

HAMMER — ACT I — Short linen coat, light colored trousers, no collar. 
At picnic — Has his Sunday clothes on. Same trousers can be used, but 
black sack coat, collar and red tie. 

ACT IV — Fashional:)]e business suit, neat mixed tie. In street scene — 
black derby hat. 

ACT V — Evening dress of the times. Prince Albert coat, black in color, 
light colored trousers, clothes to fit well. 

HANFORD — ACT II and III — Light colored coat and trousers, wearing 
leggins. soft hat pulled down, collar and tie. After coming out of store 
with Tompkins, should have leggins removed, coat collar turned down, hat 
turned up and looking generally improved in appearance. 

ACT IV — Dark colored suit, flashy waistcoat and tie. 

ACT V— Same as Act III. Or dress suit. 

BILL MANNS — Only one suit — Brown colored jean suit (clean and nczu) 
and old black hat (soft). 

DEACON GOODALL— ACT I— Simday suit— Black suit, black tie and 
straw hat (a little large). 

ACT II — Same suit except loose fitting light colored coat. 

ACT IV nad V" — Same as in Act I. except black soft felt hat. 

LETTERBEE— ACT I— At the bell-ringing scene— Trousers and shirt 
sleeves, no hat, stocking feet one trouser's leg rolled up. At picnic — A well 
worn dark colored, loose fitting suit, no collar, colored handkerchief about 
neck. 



ACT IV — Same make-up, except should appear as if it had met rough 
usage, coat torn, clothes soiled. 

HENDERSON— ACT IV and V— Well dressed in Prince Albert slate 
colored suit, black tie. 

SAM — Any make-up will answer suitable to the part. 

ACT V — Well dressed, dark blue suit, brass buttons, collar and tie. 

MONROE — Any colored, well worn suit showing several torn places. Old 
black hat, no collar. 

WILLIE AND JAMES— As boys 13 or 14 years old. 

SARAH TOMPKINS— ACT I— Light colored summer suit, covered 
with rain coat, hat. 

ACT II and III — Same suit without rain coat. 

ACT IV — Evening dress. 

ACT V — Evening dress. 

AMANDA TOMPKINS— ACT I— Dark colored, clean-up dress, with 
apron. At picnic — Without apron. 

ACT III— Same make-up. 

ACT IV and V— Black silk dress. 

RUTH ORMSBEE— ACT I— Medium colored, grey or light brown suit. 

ACT II and IV — The same will answer. 

ACT V— Evening dress. 

' WIDOW STOPWELL— ACT I, 11. Ill, IV— Black dress. White apron 
at picnic. 

ACT V — Grey suit or brown suit. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— ACT IV— Dark blue costume. 

ACT V— Evening dress. 



Properties Rweq\iired 



ACT I. 

Hay rakes, snathes, baskets for in front of store. Luggage for stage and 
Sarah. Sticks of red candy for Sarah and Amanda. Ladder. Letterbee's notice. 
Pins. Steel bar for church bell, cannon. Broom for Sam. Tables for 
picnic. Pail for Manns. Tablecloth in basket. Dishes. Hand bell. Large 
key for church door. Bag for Manns. 

ACT n. 

Fish basket for Hanford. Fish rod. Flask for Hanford. Crackers and 
Cheese. Calling cards for Hanford. Stage money for Hanford. Broom 
for Sam. Letters for Miss Ormsbee. Peck basket filled with potatoes for 
Hanford. 

ACT HL 

Articles for store front (Fall). Bundle for Goodall. Bench in front of 
store. Note book and pencil for Hanford. Bottle of stimulent for Hanford. 
Stage money. 

ACT IV. 

Court papers for Hammer. Letter for Tompkins. Books for table. Vio- 
lin for Letterbee. 

ACT V. 

Paper for Henderson. Books for table and Miss Henderson. Satchel for 
Sam. Mortgage papers for Hammer. Handcuffs for officer. Revolver for 
officer. 



Act One 



Scene represents one end of the village green, with streets on two sides 
and on the end of it. Tompkins' store and the post office on one side of it. 
Tompkins' residence and the Widow Stopwell's on the other. A lamp post 
{street light) near the post office and one some where on the green — they to 
be lighted by the colored man Sam (about the time when it is supposed to be 
dusk and as Ben Hammer starts for his home). As the curtain rises there 
are seen some small boys playing on the green, tossing the new mown hay 
(hay made of dyed green excelsior) ; there should be a green carpet to rep- 
resent the green. 

Tompkins steps to his stoop as if looking for some one, before he begins to 
talk. The minister, the school teacher and the boys pass in and out of the 
post office — saying nothing except words of salutation as they pass. One of 
the boys slips up back of Tompkins, while he is standing on his stoop and 
hooks some apples in a basket standing there. The closing up of the store, 
the going home from the store and the singing on Tompkins' veranda must 
be a night scene, with stars shining (if possible). 

The old postmaster and his dame, as also Widow Stopwell and her board- 
ers, step to their doors or stoops as if to listen to the singing at Tompkins'. 
After the singing ceases and the people go into their houses Sam the colored 
man puts out the lights, leaving darkness, which quickly changes to early 
morning light (that is about three o'clock a. m). 

TOMPKINS — (discovered at rise) Well, it seems as if the durn old stage 
would never cume, and there's Mandy she's gittin' anxious tew. By turn 
over, if it don't cume pretty soon I'll go besides myself, for Sarah she's 
cummin' home tonight and it's many, many a month since we have seen her, 
Ben, Benjamin. 

BEN HAMMER— (coming out of the store) Yes. Mr. Tompkins. 
TOMPKINS — Where dew you 'spose that pesky old stage is? Seems as 
if it would never git here. Jest step down the road and see if it's in sight, 
fur I can't wait any longer. 

BEN — (Ben steps to back of stage and looks as if looking dozvn the road) 
I think I see the dust of the stage down the road, and it ought to be here 
soon. 

TOMPKINS— That's good, Ben. Seems as if I could not wait to see that 
gal. Think lots of her, and I'll bet you our Bolton grey rooster, that she'll 
hug her old dad good and hard when she sees him. She ain't the kind that 
thinks themselves smart like some of the gals do nowadays, and Ben don't 
you ever git one of them smart gals. They'll want more money for ribbons 
and sich than you can earn, and they'll have store bills a starin' you in the 
face and you will have to pay them with promises. Hoora ! Hoora ! Here 
comes the stage. Mandy ! Mandy ! it's cummin'. Hurry up er I'll git the 
first hug. 



8 

Enter M. {Monroe comes on to stage from roadway, on right, with grips, 
sets thevi dozen in front of Tompkins' house) 

AIONROE — I'll leave the mail at the post office and then I'll help you 
all off. 

(Enter Sarah Tompkins from road on right) 

TOMPKINS — Hallo, Sarah Tompkins, here's your old dad. How are 
you. Thought you'd never come. Never so glad tew see you in all my life 
afore. Gosh, must give you another kiss. 

SARAH — Well, father, it does seem so good to see you again. It has been 
such a long time since I went away, but where's mother? Oh, here she is. 
Bye, you old dear. 

{Enter Amanda. Coming from her house, z^'liere she lias been seen zvatch- 
ing for the stage) 

AMANDA — Well, well, for the land's sake ! If you hain't changed some 
since I saw you last. You are as big as I am. 

SARAH— Yes, mother. , 

AMANDA — Come on into the house, you must be awful hungry, and I 
have a nice supper for you, but guess it's cold now, for I have waited so 
long for Monroe's old stage ; bet you never hurried them old horses a mite, 
ought to give them the lash. That's what they need. 

SARAH — No, mother, I think a few oats would be better for them. Oh, 
mother, it does seem so good to be at home again, and I am so hungry. What 
have you for supper, I can not wait for it. 

AMANDA — Oh, I have got some new rye bread and I have a big straw- 
berry cake for you. Pa had Sam pick the berries today, as they will be the 
last we will get, and said to be sure and make you a cake out of them. 

{Exit Sarah and Amanda into tlie house) 

{IVJiile the Tompkins are talking Monroe is busy bringing in baggage for 
Sara It) 

{Ben lias also been helping Mo)iroe Zi'ith baggage) 

MONROE — Hope your daughter won't come every day, Tompkins. She's 
got more duds than a dozen passengers ought to have ; and I guess I will 
have to charge you a little more for them. I just set them down by the door 
and Ben and that black rascal of yours can lug them in. 

TOMPKINS— (.-J.? if a little angry) Well, by gosh, IMonroe, you can 
charge jest \fhat you please, I'll pay you, and you needn't kick, you'll get all's 
that due you, and the next time Sarah Tompkins goes away you won't be 
asked to carry her. 

MONROE — Hold on Tompkins, you need not get excited, hold your tem- 
per and you will enjoy yourself a deal more {Exit Tompkins to store). 

SARAH — {Sarah from door of her home) Wait, Ben, let me help you; 
those trunks are too heavy for you. How you have grown ; such a nice, big 
fellow. How is your mother, Ben? Tell her I will be up and see her just 
as soon as I get a chance. 

BEN— I will. Miss Tompkins. 

SARAH — Please, don't call me Miss Tompkins. I have been called that 
long enough and when I am here in Silentdale my name is Sadie Tompkins. 



BEN — No, Miss Sarah, the trunks are not verj' lieavy and I can handle 
them, and here comes (enter Sam from Tompkins' Iiouse) Sam and he will 

help me. Mother, she is not very well now-a-days, 1 don't think she will 

be here with us very long. 

SARAH — That is too bad, Ben, and I am very sorry for you. Mother 
wrote me that she was ailing. 

{Amanda nozc appears at door of her home) 

AMANDA — Sarah, what have you in all of those trunks? Guess Pa will 
have to build on to the house for you. You must have a lot of dresses I 
have never seen. We'll look them over as soon as we get time {Bxit 
Amanda and Sarah to house). 

{Ben nozc near the store. Tompkins speaking from front of his store) 

TOMPKINS — Well, Ben, got the duds in all rite did you? Pretty heavy 
I suppose ; at least old Monroe said they were, but mind ye, he don't put his 
hand on them agin. I'll shut up the store tonite and you can go home a 
lettle earlier, and you need not cume down Monday as I'll not open the 
store the Fourth. But be sure and be on hand at the picnic. The new par- 
son he's goin' tew deliver the oration and I may say sumthing myself ; that 
is if Deak Goodall '11 give me a chance, he generally wants to say it all him- 
self. Good night, Ben. Hey, Ben, here I nigh on to forgot you, oughter 

say sumthing when I don't pay you, you'll want it for the Fourth. 

BEN — Thank you, Mr. Tompkins. I thought you had forgotten it. Good 
night {E.vit Ben to road, left). 

TOMPKINS — That Ben's a darn good boy and he'll make his mark some- 
day. Well, here comes {enter Mrs. T. and Sarah, noiv eoming out of their 
home, erossijig tozeards store) Sarah over to help her old daddy close up 
jest like she used to before she went away tew school ; yes, and Mar {enter 
Amanda) she's cummin' tew. 

SARAH — Well, daddy, thought I would to come over and help you close 
up the store again, bets you have crackers and cheese there jest as you used 
lo, and don't you remember how I used to slip in and get a stick of red candy 
out of the box in the old show case and how you used to say, Saddie, Saddle, 
I'll tell your mother if you don't stop pinching the candy? Come on in and 
see if I can't find a stick now, bet I can. Any mice in the store now, 
daddy? {Sarah and Tompkins enter store for a moment or so leaving 
Amanda looking into the store door. Sarali and Tompkins return. Trio 
note together). Say, mother, this is the same old candy, tastes better than 
ever and better than all the Kibbles' I have eaten. Here. Mam's a stick 
for you and its licking good too. 

AMANDA — Well, we'd better be going home for tomorrow's the Fourth, 
and say, Sarah, you will have to hear our new minister. 

{Tompkins, Amanda and Sarah cross green tozcards their home) 

TOMPKINS— That's right Sarah, you will and you will like him tew. 
He's way ahead of the old parson. 

SARAH — I know, but Mr. Batchley was such a dear old man, and we all 
loved him so. 

TOMPKINS — Jess so, but I'll bet you can love the new man a durn sight 



better. He's going to deliver the oration on the green at the Fourth July 
celebration. That is if the old deacon '11 keep still. Say, Mandy, — dew you 
know that I think the parson's, gittin' a leetle sweet on skule teacher, for 
he's up to the skule a good deal, lately, and the teacher — you know her, 

Sarah, she's Miss Ormsbee, best looking girl in town, and 

AMANDA — Now, Azariah Tompkins, that girl is good looking, but she's 
not a mite better than I was at her age. 

TOMPKINS — So you were dear, and you'r prutty good looking now. But 
as I was sayin' she always meets him at the post office and walks home with 
him, so Letterbee says, and he knows what's going on around there, he's the 
best posted man in town. — Gosh he's forgot to shut up his office (nozv ar- 
rives at his lioine). Bet he's asleep in there. I'll jess step over and wake him 
up (goes tozi'ard P. O. and zvhcn in front of it shouts). Letterbee! Let- 
terbee ! Wake up there, and close up your shop. It's nigh on to bedtime. 
{Enter Letterbee appearing rubbing liis eyes as if sleepy) 
LETTERBEE — Yes, Tompkins, gess I was asleep. Thanks for waking 
me up. I'll close up all right now. Much obliged to ye (Letterbee looks 
around lialf dazed. Returns to Iiis post office, closing door. Exit Letterbee). 
TOMPKINS — (JJ'hen returning to Jiis home) That's a good joke on 
Letterbee. Gess he got tired out gossiping 'bout the new minister and the 
skule teacher. He'd better tend to his own affairs part of the time. 

(Tompkins returns to his ozi'ii home zvlicre Amanda a)id Sarah are azvait- 
ing him) 

SARAH — Let us sit down on the steps (party arc seated on stoop) a few 
minutes and enjoy the evening, it is such a perfect night, an ideal one for 
star gazing. Do \'0u know that when I was away astronomy was my favorite 
study. I worked to master it. It was quite hard at first, but as I advanced 
I became more and more interested in it until it was my most delightful 
study, and 
AMANDA— And 

SARAH — And many a night I have remained up until long after midnight 
looking at the stars, working hard to learn more of them and endeavoring to 
solve their mysterious presence. One night I sat up at the window so long 
that I dropped asleep with my head resting on the window sill, sleeping until 
I heard the chapel bell ringing six o'clock in the morning. 

AMANDA — It was a good thing for you that your mother didn't know of 
it or you would have heard from her. 

SARAH — And don't you know the professor would often go with us to 
the observatory and we would look through the large telescope there at the 
stars. Some night I will tell you the names of them, how large they are and 
how far away they are from us. Sometimes I seem to think that there are 
people living in those bodies just as we are living here, and that perhaps 
we may some day be there with them, and our little Willie, he too may be — 
There, there. Daddy, don't cry. We did not study stars all the time. 
You ought to Have seen us when I opened the box from home. The girls 
would come in and we would have so much fun, and such a fine time. There 
daddy, — you feel better now, don't you? 



TOMPKINS — Yes, I am all right now. Sarah do you know any of those 
songs we used to sing out here on the veranda when you were at home. 
If Sam's round we'll jess have one. Mandy, see if Sam's in the kitchen. 

(Amanda steps into house and quickly returns) 

AMANDA— Yes, here he is. 

(Enter Sam, coming out of house) 

TOMPKINS — Sam, we're going to try one of the old songs. Are you in 
good trim? 

SAM — Yes, Massa Tompkins, never's better. But if I sing then you's jest 
got to sing my old favorite for me; "Down on the Swanee ribber." 

SARAH — Yes, Sam, we will sing that first if you wish. 

(Song by Tompkins, Amanda. Sarah and Sam) 

AMANDA— Well of all things, did you hear the church bell (bell rings) 
strike eleven? Come every one of you and get to bed (Tompkins, Amanda 
and Sarah go into house). 

(Exit Sam) 

(All is very quiet. Sam goes and blozvs out the street lights. Shortly the 
boys appear near the church as if bent on ringing the church bell) 

(Enter Ben, from road left) 

BEN— That you Sam? 

SAM — Yes, Massa Hammer, and here's (enter Willie and James, two 
small boys) WilHe and James, but where am de parson ? 

BEN — He said he would be here with the key. Willie (starts to go) run 
down the road and see if you can find him. Oh, here he is' now ! 

(Enter Nczvcommer, coming from Stopwell house) 

NEWCOMMER — Say, boys, I have lost my church keys, and how can we 
get in? We must ring in the Fourth someway. 

BEN — Sam, there's a ladder in back of the store. Get it quickly and one 
of us will go up it and go in through the belfry. 

(Sets the ladder up against tlie belfry and one of the small boys goes up 
it and opens the door from the inside) 

NEWCOMMER— Who will go up it? 

SAM — I's be the one to go up it. 

BEN — No, Sam, you'r too heavy, the ladder's not strong. James, he is 
the lightest, let him go up. Now, James, after you get in go down and open 
the door for us, but be careful not to fall (James goes up ladder). 

(As they are standing about the church door zvaiting 'for it to be opened, 
they discover something zuhite on the door — strikes a match and reads aloud) 

NOTICE ! 



ALL PERSONS ARE FORBID TO RING THIS MEETING HOUSE 
BELL AFORE FIVE O'CLOCK ON THE MORNING OF JULY 
FOURTH. 

Per order, 
SYLVANUS LETTERBEE, 
Postmaster, Sexton and Tythingman. 



{Ben takes notice off door of church and tacks it on Lcttcrbcc's door, re- 
turning to chit re li) 

NEWCOMMER — See, boys, it is only three o'clock, and I guess that we 
are in for it, but I will see you through, only give me the first chance at the 
rope (Chjireli door open and party go inside). 
Ding — dong — ding. 

{Enter Letterbee from post office, in half-drcsscd state — Iiurrics tozvard 
church) 

LETTERBEE — Well, I'll bet tl-.is noise will stop, or my notice is no good. 
{Enters churcli for a moment — boy slides dozvn ladder, others rusli out of 
church door and disappear) 

LETTERBEE — {Xozc coming out of the church) Next year if they ring 
that bell they'll walk over Letterbee, for Ell stay in the church all night. 
They think I don't know them, but I do. There's the Thurston twins, they 
ought to be at home with their poor, sick mother. That nigger of Tompkins, 
he's a dark spot in this community. — Ben Hammer, and Ben ought to do bet- 
ter, for he was brought up by his mother, — and the new minister, he was 
there too, and who would have ever thought he would have been in such 
scrape as this, but you can't tell much about these nezv coiners {nozv at his 
ozvn door, observes the notice nozv tacked tlierc). If some one has not tacked 
the notice on my own door. That's an insult ; and Ell bring it up at the 
church meeting next week. They'll hear from Letterbee yet {exit Letterbee 
to his liome). 

{Enter Ben, Sam and the tzvo boys zvith cannon, place it on green, load 
and fire it) 

SAM — Massa Hammer, just you let me touch it off. We.'ll wake 'em all up. 

{Ben appears as if to fire cannon) 

BEN— Get back boys ! Get back, I say. 

BANG. 

SAM — What am dat? Golly, it am de parade. 

{Enter boys dressed in grotesque fasliion, parade twice around the green) 

{Exit all, right) 

{Re-enter Sam zvith broom) 

SAM — Fse just done got something to do to clean up this yer dear briss, 
so as to have dis yer green in shape fur de picnic dis afternoon. For rite 
hear do we have the feed for this occasion. 

{Enter Tompkins) 

TOMPKINS— (^/raA-,? from his ozvn house) Most through there sam? 
Mandy's got something for you to do in the kitchen. Hurry up you rascal. 
{Exit Tompkins). 

SAM — Yes. Massa Tompkins, I'se cummin' ( .\r// Sam going into Tomp- 
kins' house). 

{Enter Ben, Sam. li'illie and James, right) 

{Ben and the boys bring in and set up the tables for the picine. Sam fol- 
lows them in and helps) 

SAM — Juss you look down the road and see who am cummin' to dis yer 
picnic, — none but old Bill Manns. What you 'spose brings him hear? 



13 

(Enter Bill Manns from road left) 

BEN — Hallo, Bill! Coming to the picnic? 

BILL MANNS — Yes, the parson was up thar to the cabin tother day. and 
says he : Now, Bill, I want you to come down to the picnic, we are to heve 
a fine time and I know you will enjoy it. Says L Gess not, parson. Am 
a too much skerred of winmien to be thar ; but says he. You must promise 
me you will come, and so I did and so I am har, body and soul, and if you 
don't want me. say so, and FlI slide fur the woods (Starts to go). 

ALL — No, no Bill, we want you to stay. 

BEN — Here, Bill, take this pail and go down to the spring for water to 
make lemonade of. (E.vit Bill Manns ivith pail).. 

SAM — Massa Ben ! Am j'ou gwine to make de red kind, same dat Massa 
Tompkins hab in de back room of de store, de sort dat hab de red oil in it? 

BEN — Only the plain kind, Sam. No sticks in this. 

SAM — Den I don't want dat kind ; you can give my share to Bill Manns, 
he am temperance. He am. 

(Enter JVidozit Stopzvcll) 

(ll'idoiv Stopivell comes from her home leith basket on licr arm eontain- 
ing tablecloth and articles to set tables with) 
WIDOW STOPWELL— Good morning, all! Am I the first lady here? 

ALL — Good morning, Mrs. Stopwell. 

BEN — Yes, Mrs. Stopwell, you seem to be the first lady here, but the others 
will be here soon. We have the tables up, and Bill Manns has gone for the 
water. 

WIDOW S.— Bill Manns. He here? 

BEN — Yes, the minister invited him to come. So, now, as we have done 
our part we will go home and dress for the picnic. Hope it will not rain. 

(Exit Ben, Sam, JJ'illie a>id James, road left) 

(Enter Amanda) 

AMANDA — H'w do. Thought I would be here on time, but had so much 
to do, couldn't get here a bit earlier. Looks a mite like rain. Hope 'twont. 
How's the parson and the school teacher getting on? A little sweet on 
tother I see. Letterbee says 'twill be a match, but I don't believe it. That 
school teacher is a mite gone on herself. But there's others just as good 
looking as she is. Sarah, she's home now, you know, and — 

WIDOW S. — Here comes the girls now, and we will soon have the tables 
in order. (Enter Miss Ormsbce and Sarah, coming from their home). 

MISS ORMSBEE — Ladies, you are very smart to have the tables ready 
so soon, and they look so nicely. Don't you think so. Miss Tompkins? 

SARAH — Yes, quite so, and if it does not rain, no doubt we will have 
a most enjoyable time. 

(Enter Manns) 

(Bill Manns looks from the rear, but on seeing the ladies, cannot get up 
courage to enter: he makes several attempts, finally ntsties in. sets dozvn 
the zi'ater, spilling it on the floor) 
MANNS — Thar's your warter. 



14 

(Enter Neivcommer from Stopwell house, arrives at tables same time that 
Manns does) 

NEWCOMMER— How do you do, Manns? (Steps up and shakes hands 
zcith Manns) Glad to see 3'ou here. Ladies, Mr. Manns. 
(Bill makes terrible attempt io bozv) 
(Ladies all recognize hiin) 

NEWCOMMER— Well, ladies, tables all ready, and it's nearly time for 
the picnic — am afraid we will be showered upon. The clouds look threat- 
ening. 

(Minister steps up to Miss Ornisbee and apparently tliey are greatly inter- 
ested in each other — the Tompkins zvatch them closely) 

SARAH — (7^0 the z^i'idozv — aside) I wish you would introduce me to the 
minister, I would like to meet him ever so much. 

WIDOW S. — Here he comes towards us now, and I will be happy to 
favor you. (Introduces Miss Sarali to the minister). 

(Enter Ben, Sam and Willie and Jaincs from road, left) 
(Nezvcommer and Sarah together near front of stage) 

NEWCOMMER — I am highly pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss 
i ompkins, as I have heard j^our name mentioned so frequently, that already 
I had commenced to feel as if we were old acquaintances 

(Enter Deacon Goodall from road, right, greeting all present) 
SARAH — How delightful to think that we now seem like old friends, and I 
trust our friendship will increase with our acquaintanceship. 
(Miss Ormsbce zcatchcs the pair rather closely) 
(Steps to the platform and calls the gathering to order) 
DEACON GOODALL — As this is the time for or exercises to begin we 
will open by singing. Our first song will be "The Star Spangled Banner." 
Miss Ormsbee will sing the solo and all will join in on the chorus. 

SONG. 

DEACON G. — According to the program the oration is to be the next, 
but as the clouds seem to threaten so — I think it best to transpose the pro- 
gram somewhat and have our lunch now, and then should it rain adjourn 
to the church for the oration. 

TOMPKINS — I don't. Hero's the place for the oration, rain or no rain. 

NEWCOMMER — As there seems to be a difference of opinion, I would 
suggest that the question of having the oration delivered in the church after 
the lunch be decided by vote. 

DEACON G. — Very good suggestion. Those in favor of having our 
lunch first and the oration afterwards in the church, will say yes. 

( Several) — Yes — Yes. 

Those opposed by saying No. 

TOMPKINS— No. 

MANNS— Naw. 

DEACON G. — The ayes have it and we will now proceed with the lunch, 
but as the tables are not quite ready enjoy yourselves the best you can until 
the ringing of the bell. 



15 

(All except Mrs. Tompkins, Widozu Stopivell, Miss Ormsbee, who are 
working at the tables, enjoy themselves, as if killing time, ivaiting for the 
tables. The minister and Miss Sarah have zvandcred atvay from the others) 

SARAH — I don't like that Miss Ormbee's singing. I do not understand 
why it is that you think she is such an excellent singer. There is most cer- 
tainly room for cultivation and improvement. 

NEWCOMMER— Do you think so? Now, I think I understand music 
to a certain extent, and I must give the young lady credit for doing quite 
nicely. She has accepted an offer to sing in one of the churches at Benton, 
the largest in the county, and I trust that you will not criticise too much 
until you hear her again. 

(Nezvcommer and Sarah go back toxvard the tables. The bell (hand bell) 
sounds All sit dozun, except Manns, zvho stands as if zvaiting a special 
invitation, and Miss Ormsbee, zcho has zcandcred to the front of the stage 
or end of the green) 

MISS ORMSBEE— Why did I stay to this picnic, it's a horrid affair. I 
should have gone home Saturday, and that Tompkins' girl did watch me 
so closely I could not sing No more Silentdale picnics for me. 

NEWCOMMER— Mr. Manns, here is a place for you, and Mi.«s Orms- 
bee, have you forgotten us? 

MISS ORMSBEE — Perhaps so, but I am not the only one who forgets. 

NEWCOMMER— Yes, I noticed that Mr. Manns had forgotten us. Every 
one enjoy yourselves and have a good time. I shall try to enjoy myself with 
the rest of you. I think when together like this we should be as one and 
torget our differences. 

TOMPKINS — Parson, am sorry we could not have heard your oration 
first. 

MANNS— So be I. 

AMANDA — Azariah, I would not discuss that now. I voted agin you. 

LETTERBEE— So did I. 

MANNS— Wall, I didn't. 

(The th.under has been lieard during the table scene, and tJie shotver is 
upon them) 

BEN — It's already commencing to rain, and I'll step over and open the 
church door for you. 

LETTERBEE— No, you needn't, I'll do that myself. I am sexton. You 
done your share of church opening this morning. 

BEN — What's that you say, better know your right first, prove it if you 
can. 

LETTERBEE — Well, I can, for I saw you out of my window, and what's 
more, the parson was with you. A nice state of affairs, ain't it? 

SEVERAL — What, the minister ringing the bell. 

(The rain nozv comes and all rush for the church, and in their hurry 
knock the table dozen, etc. Miss Ormsbee goes to her home) 

(Manns stays a minute, looking at the tables, making quick grab, tilling 
his bag and running dozvn the road, saying as he goes) 

MANNS— No church for me. 

CURTAIN. 



Act Two 



Scene i — Scene in woods supposed to be near Bill Manns' hut. Manns is 
seen lazily idling — talking to himself. 

Scene 2 — To represent the reverse end of the green at Silentdale. The 
church which appears in Scene i not to show. In its place a landscape view 
to be used. A settee to be placed near the front of stage, on the green. 

{Discovered at rise seated on stump, left) 

MANNS — Wall, things seem to change a little around har, but they are 
pretty slow down to the "Dale," and since Ben went away they have been 
worse than ever. Let me see, that's 'bout three years ago, and who'd ever 
thought he'd stayed so long, probably got a gal that keeps him there. I used 
to have one myself, that's years and years ago. But it seems as if it was 
only yisterday when they laid her to rest 'neath the old willow tree. If 
she'd lived Bill Manns would not been here all these years. Things would 
be brighter and I would be happier, but when she died I bade the world 
good-bye, forever (Bill sobs and feels badly). But I can't do this, it'll 
make me sick, does every time I git to thinking — Ben was the life of Sil- 
antdale, and he was the best boy that ever stood in that town. See what he 
done for his poor old mother, and how he took care of her till she died, and 
now he's saved up and set up a monument in the graveyard. Tompkins, 
he'll steal it if he don't screw it down. But Ben, he got a notion in his 
head that the town was too small for him, so he started out. Wanted to 
be something. He took a great, great risk. See the risk I tuk when I lit 
into these woods more'n twenty odd years ago. No one knows whar I came 
from and no one ever will. — I don't think Ben would have gone if it 
hadn't been for the "Deak" and the '"Widder." They kept puttiiV it into his 
head to do something and kept tellin' him that Tompkins' whiskey shop's 
no place fur him, and I gess they were about rite. Gess it mite helped my 

bank account some ef I'd let him alone. He's got every cent I've seen 

since I've bin har, but it's jest as well, ef he'd not got it sum one else wud. — 
But it's too bad to think that he scopped all Ben's property, tuk his old home 
and all he had. But Ben says he'll git it back some day, but I gess not. 
Tompkins' too slick to be caught napping. He's a sharper — and you have 

got to git up early to git ahead of the old man. But they say h&'s lost 

sum lately, but he's got enough yit ; but things may change arter afl, they do 

sumetimes but it don't make much difference with me, I'm no account 

anyway — nothing but a poor old 

(Enter Hanford, right) 

HANFORD — How do you do sir. Hope I don't intrude ! 

MANNS — Wall — I do all rite and the woods are as free to you as my- 
self. — I stay har and mind my own "biz" and you'll have to do the same ef 
you stay. 



17 

HANFORD — My good fellow you hardly seem to understand me. I don't 
wish to disturb you, neither do I wish to stay here. I was simply fishing down 
the stream and am now looking for the village somewhere in this vicinity, 
where I can find something to eat. — So can you tell me how far it is to town 
and if there is a hotel there? 

MANNS — Silentdale's is a little way dawn the stream {Poi)its left). 
Thar's no hotel thar, but you can git cracker and cheese at Tompkins' store, 
— and something to wash it down with, ef you wish, and I kinder think you 
luk as ef you sort of wished it. 

HANFORD— Thank you my good fellow. I think I will find the store, but 
the crackers and cheese will seem somewhat dry. As to the wash about which 
you were talking, will this (takes flask from his pocket, drijiks and hands 
it to Bill) answer? Can you use it? 

MANNS— I kin. All of it. 

HANFORD — And these fish you can have, they are beauties (Manns looks 
at the fish in the basket). 

MANNS — Stranger ! See bar, you jest keep the basket, but don't ever 
take those things into town with you. — They'd run you out, and you orter 
be arrested for taking them out the warter. — You don't know how to fish. — 
Jest sich fellows as you spile the stream. 

HANFORD — Well, we won't argue that point and I guess I'll throw 
them back into the streain. 

MANNS — I jest gess you won't, and thars the difference. You bury the 
fish, and don't throw them into that stream. Do you bar? 

HANFORD— Oh, yes, I'll bury the fish (guess I had better or get btir- 
ricd myself). Well, my man — 

MANNS— No, it ain't, my Mann, it's Bill Manns. That's who I are. 

HANFORD — Well, Bill Manns, if you wish. I am thankful to you for 
your kindness and I will now be obliged to say good-bye. Perhaps we may 
meet again some day. — Well, good day, sir. 

(E.rit Han ford, left i E) 

MANNS — Good daj' — Wall that fellow's appearance I don't like — Thar's 
sumthing 'bout him that's agin me. — He's a smarty kind of chap. — Think's 
he know'es it all. — He'd knowed more ef he'd thrown those fish back into 
the stream. 

(E.rit Manns, right i E.) 

(Manns imnders out of sight and disaf^pears. The scene nozv changes, 
shozi'ing Silentdale green. Hanford, supposed to have folloived dozen the 
streain, noze enters the tozvn stopping in front of the store, zcalks by and re- 
turns, finally steps to the store door and speaks to the young lady inside) 

(Enter Hanford, left) 

HANFORD — Good afternoon ! I am somewhat hungry, and have you 
anything in the store that will satisfy a craving appetite? I could eat any- 
thing at the present time. 

(Enter Sarah from store, stands in doorway) 

SARAH — Nothing but some crackers and cheese, sir; will those answer? 



i8 

HANFORD— Well, I suppose they will have to answer, if its the best you 
have. It's better than nothing when one's half starved. 

(Exit Hanford, steps into the store, gets Iris lunch and quickly returns to 
the stoop. Sarah follozvs him to store door; they nozv continue their con- 
versation) 

(Enter Sarah to front of store on stage) 

SARAH — Am sorry, sir. that we could not furnish you with a more elab- 
orate lunch. But you must remember that the stock of a country store for 
such occasions is hardly comparable to that of a city restaurant. You seem 
to have been on a fishing expedition. May I inquire what success? 

(Enter Tompkins) 

(Is now seen crossing the green as if coining from his oti'n liouse, arriv- 
ign at his store where Sarah and Hanford are standing) 

TOMPKINS — How'd do, stranger— Glad tew see yew — bean fishing I see 
— got nuthing — you orter knowed mor'en tew try tew catch these fish 'round 
here with that kind of a huk — you city fellers don't know every thing yit — 
but you'll larn if you stay 'round here long. If you want to ketch fish go up 
and see Bill Manns, he'll larn you — Better come into the store with me — You 
luk a lettle thirsty, and sumthing to wash down those crackers and cheese 
won't hurt you — Had'em nigh on tew six months. 

HANFORD— (.-J ,j/(/t') (^'cs, J thought so. they zcould pass for army 
hard tack all right) I don't care if I do. 

(Exit Tompkins and Hanford) 

(Both enter the store, soon returning, zi'iping their lips — Sarah remaining 
outside) 

SARAH — What a fine looking gentleman, I wish I knew his name. Per- 
haps he will stay in town for a day or so, if so we may become acquainted. 

(Enter Tompkins and Hanford) 

TOMPKINS— (A'oi^' coming out of tlic store) Wall, you kin't git out of 
town tonite, the stage goes down in the morning but I'll take you over to the 
widder's, prap's she'll keep you. — Sarah you jess watch the store till we git 
back (starts zcith Hanford to cross the green tozvards the imdozu s) You see 
stranger, I haint no clerk now, can't git one to stay over a week at a time, 
since Hammer left some three years ago. He was a durn fule fcr going, 
but he would go, but he'll be back looking for a job fore he gits trough, but 
he won't git it. You jess stay here and I'll see what the widder says (steps 
to the zuidozv's door and knocks) Widder, can you keep this gentleman over 
night ; says was expecting his team here tew meet him, but taint cum, so he's 
got tew stay sumwheres. 

(Enter Mrs. StopzveU, standing in her doorzvay) 

WIDOW S.— Who is he? 

TOMPKINS — Dunno, never seed him afore, but he's a gentleman. I can 
see it in him. 

WIDOW S. — (Looks him over) No, sir, I cannot. I don't keep stran- 
gers in my house. You will have to look elsewhere. 

(Tompkins steps back to zvhere Hanford has strayed) 

( The zi'idozv then continues to herself) 



19 

, That Tompkins must think this is a public house and he can bring here 
who ever he pleases, but he will find he can't, and whati's more, 1 would not 
accommodate him. I think less of him than I did. Don't think he ever had 
an honest hair in his head, and to think he stole Ben's property, but Ben will 
get it back some day — That gentleman he speaks of, never seen him before, 
but while on the surface he appears as one, underneath he may be a scoun- 
drel. — I don't like his looks. He's bringing no good luck to this place. 

(Exit Jl'idozv Stoftivcll) 

(Tompkins on zvay back zvitli Hanford to the store) Well, the widder 
won't keep you — She's a lettle cross about something. You see Deak Good- 
all and the widder's going to hitch up, going tew git married soon, they say, 
and may be they have had a little tilt or so. and that's what's the matter with 
her. but she c^'t keep you — But we'll go back to the store. 

HANFORD— ThaL's rather hard lines. — I suppose it would be out of the 
question to ask you to keep me for the night ? 

TOMPKINS — By gosh, I will ! I aint the kind to see a man stay out all 
night (now back to the store) Sarah, we're agoing to keep this man over 
nite. Take him over tew the house and tell Mar tew Ink arter him. 

SARAH — I shall introduce him to mother as Mr. — ? 

TOMPKINS — Dunno — Stranger, I fogot to ask ye your name. What 
may it be? 

HANFORD— My name is Hanford (hands Sarah a card), E. Searls Han- 
ford. 

SARAH — (Aside) (It reads and sounds -a'cll. There is sonietl:ing in a 
no me.) 

TOMPKINS— This is my daughter, Mr. Hanford.— Sarah, jess show Mr. 
Hanford over tew the house and tell Mar tew take care of him. 

(Exit Tompkins to store) 

(Sarah and Hanford noxv cross green tmcards the Tompkins' house and 
seemingly arc greatly interested in each other. They conz'crse during the 
zvalk) 

HANFORD — Miss Tompkins, I am highly pleased with your beautiful 
village and its surroundings, an ideal spot for one who is burdened with city 
cares to rest and enjoy the blessings of cjuietude. — But you living in it con- 
tinually must find it somewhat prose and weary some, and perhaps wish at 
times that you were away from its monotony. 

SARAH — Oh, no, Mr. Hanford, I enjoy it here, and am not looking for a 
change. The scenes to me are most beautiful. — The old trees. — The rocks. — 
The hills — and even the rivulet so peacefully winding its way oceanward, be- 
tween them, are all to me objects of the deepest admiration, and have with 
me a most sacred place. I was for a number of years away at school, and 
while there I enjoyed the hospitalities of the city, but was glad to say good- 
bye, leave all its attractions behind and return to that rest of which you 
spoke, here in this silent dale. 

HANFORD — Perhaps I could accustom myself to its surroundings and 
content myself to remain here the balance of my days, but in order to do so 



would wish the best of company to go with them, and no doubt that in mak- 
ing up my list I could include you in it. 

SARAH — Possibly, but I think you would have no trouble in finding the 
best of company without including myself. — This is our home and this 
is my mother. — Mother, Mr. Hanford, who father has invited to become our 
guest for the night. 

(Enter Amanda, standing on stoop to her house) 

AMANDA — Glad to see you, sir, walk in. You seem somewhat tired and 
worn (Exit Amanda, Hanford, Sarah, going into lioitse) 

( The stage lights are turned off for a moment or so to appear as if the 
night had passed) 

(Enter Sam from Tompkins' house, rubhijig his eyes and appearing as if 
he had just got up) • 

SAM — 'Spose I am to clean up this yer stoop, so as to have it in order, 
as the Missus say she want ebrything to look span clean, cause that yer 
fellar who stayed over night, and who done all that yer singing last evening, 
am gwine to quit this yer town this very morning. She say he hab heaps of 
money and we must treat him with a deal of respect. I'll treat him if I 
ketch him in de right place, that's what I do. Cause he called me a nigger 
last night. — r.se no nigger, I just show him who's he talkiiV to — I'sc just as 
white as he am. That's what I am. — The parson, he didn't stay long last 
night, gess he didn't like him better than I did. But Miss Sarah, she'd like 
to eat him up, and the old man he just make a fool of himself over that low- 
down white trash. But — 

(Enter Amanda, to door) 

AMANDA — Sam, hurry up, I want you in the kitchen. 

SAM — Yes, Missus Tompkins, I am coming, I am. 

(Exit Sam to house) 

(Departure of stage for Benton) 

(Enter Hanford, Tompkins, Sarah, Amanda, from Tompkins house) 

HANFORD— Well, Mrs. Tompkins (offering her a bill), if you will not 
accept anything for your trouble I do not see how I can ever repay you, I am 
most certainly under great obligation to you, and to you. Miss Tompkins. I 
feel under two-fold obligations as you surely are a success at entertaining 
visitors, and I especially enjoyed your musical part of the program, and 
trust I may have an opportunity to hear more of it. 

SARAH — Thank you, Mr. Hanford, you are quite complimentary in your 
remarks, but I hardly think I am deserving of them. As to our meeting 
you again I trust we may see you at no distant day in our village, and when 
here do not forget to call upon us, our door is open to you. 

TOMPKINS — That's so — you'll find the latch string always hanging, but 
say, Hanford, ef you go fishing again let me give you the right kind of a 
huk (All laugh). 

(Enter Monroe, from road right) 

MONROE — Come, hurry up, stranger. Can't hold this stage for courting 
bees. It's got to leave on time if it gets there on time, and it's now time to 
start, so, all aboard. 



{Bxit Hanford) 

(Exit Amanda) 

{Hanford starts for the stage. All say good-bye, etc. Mrs. Tompkins 
goes into the house. Sarah and her father start for the store) 

TOMPKINS — A durn nice fellar, that. Hope he'll show up agin some day. 
— Looks like a moneyed man. 

SARAH — Yes, he seemed quite agreeable, but I have seen others I liked 
just as well. 

TOMPKINS — You'r loo fussy 'bout your beau, Sarah. Bets you he's 
worth fifty of that minister. Ministers never have any money. 

(Exit Tompkins to store) 

SARAH — Well, we will not argue. — I am going to the post office and then 
home (Exit to post o-ffice, returns quickly) 

(Sarah on her ivay back from the post office meets the minister zvlio is on 
his zvay to the office) 

(Enter Nezvcoiiimer, front Stopwcll house) 

NEWCOMMER — Good morning, Miss Tompkins ; up early, I presume to 
enjoy the morning air? 

SARAH — Yes — No — Well, I — we were up to see our visitor depart. He 
boarded the stage for Benton. 

NEWCOMMER— Oh, I see! But, by the way, what was his name? I 
did not grasp it when you introduced me last evening. 

SARAH — Mr. Hanford, E. Searles Hanford, a pretty name, is it not? 

NEWCOMMER— Yes, I suppose .so. 

SARAH — I am sorry you did not remain, you would have enjoyed him 
very much, indeed. 

NEWCOMMER— Perhaps so.— But I thought I would not intrude.— An 
old friend, I presume? 

SARAH — No. Unknown to us until yesterday. — You see, he sort of wan- 
dered in. Had been fishing down the stream and expected his team to meet 
him here but it did not. So some one had to keep the poor fellow and it was 
our lot, and I am glad it was. — You ought to have heard him play the piano. 
We sang several duets together. He is a fine tenor. 

NEWCOMMER — Oh — I supposed you had been acquaintances for years. — 
That is, judging from the familiarity. — You should beware of strangers. 

SARAH — Mr. Newcommer, I fail to see why it should trouble you as to . 
how we entertain guests. You certainly have no cause to complain. 

NEWCOMMER — No, Miss Tompkins, you are right, you have always 
treated me nicely, and I am making no complaint, but I have you at heart and 
perhaps for your own welfare I spoke. If I have offended you — pardon me. 

SARAH — No, you have done nothing wrong. — Neither have I. — Good 
morning. 

(Exit Sarah to home) 

NEWCOMMER— I love that girl as dearly as my own life— Perhaps I 
was wrong in speaking as I did — But I could not help it. I did not like his 
looks, and I only wished to put her on guard. — There seemed something 
about him that was hard to read. He may be able to play the piano, and 



he may sing high notes, hut he miglit he a scoundrel for all that. — I only trust 
he will not appear in this place again.— 

(JVItilc talking Ncxi-commcr strolls totvard the scttrc, and is seated — as if 
ill deep thought — zvhen Miss Oniisbec approaehes from the rear — as she 
speaks the minister seems greatly startled — ) 

{Enter Miss Ormslee from stage eiitranee near P. O.) 

MISS ORMSBEE — I heg your pardon, I did not intend to disturb you. 
You seemed to have been in deep thought. Possibly working out our next 
Sunday's sermon ? Perhaps a theme on entertaining strangers unawares 
would be suggestive? But to change the subject, would say, that in crossing 
the green, I picked up this letter which you no doubt dropped. 

NEWCOMMER— 'i'hank you. Miss Ormsbcc. I think it belongs to me, 
sit down a minute until I read it, then we will go home together {Miss 
Ormsbee is seated). It is irom the church at Benton, they have extended 
me a call to become their pastor, and the offer is a mo.st flattering one. — 
Had I better accept ? 

MISS ORMSBEE— Oh, you know better than I do. I— We would dislike 
to have you leave us, but if it is for your advantage, then I should certainly 
say go {Aside). (If he goes to Benton lie a'/// he aii'oy from the Tompkins 
part of the time) 

NEWCOMMER — 1 have been here — Let me see — some three years and 
more — It seems hardly possible, the time has passed quickly — There have been 
a few changes — Some have died — Some married — A few added to the church 
roll. — On the whole, I hardly feel as if I had been a success. Others would 
have done better, and I am not satisfied with my work here. Were it not for 
one or two things I would go. 

MISS ORMSBEE— Why don't you take Miss Tompkins with you? That 
woidd remove one of the objections. 

NEWCOMMER— That is a little more than I had expected from you. 
Vou, for whom I have always had the best of regards and wishes, and I fail 
to see your motive for the sarcasm. But I think I will take your advice, and — 

MISS ORMSBEE— And take Miss Tompkins with you? 

NEWCOMMER— Hardly that, but accept the church offer. 

MISS ORMSBEE— But Mr. Newcommer, as the contents of your letter 
are a surprise to me, perhaps I in return can surprise you. 

NEWCOMMER — Why, what news have you that will prove so alarming? 

MISS ORMSBEE — Well, I have received an offer of a position at Benton 
and as I had nothing here so attractive, but what I could leave it, I, of course, 
accepted the place and will endeavor to take my departure within a few days 
or so. — Won't you miss me just a little? 

NEWCOMMER — Of course, we will all miss you, how could we help it? 
How pleasant it would be should I decide to accept the offer, to have you a 
member of mf congregation at Benton. I suppose you will follow teaching, 
same as usual. 

MISS ORMSBEE — No, sir; I am to be a correspondent clerk in ihe bank- 
ing room of Mr. E- C. Henderson, a place Mr. Hammer secured for me. 
Isn't it fine to think Ben has done so nicely? He has been promoted to chief 



23 

clerk now. — Well, I must be going or your lady friend across the way will 
be jealous. Are you going with me? 

NEWCOMMER— No, I think I will sit here a while longer, there are 
some things I wish to think over. Good-bye. {Exit Miss Onnsbcc.) Well, 
it seems as if I was a target for some people, and that young lady certainly 
made one of me, she hit near the mark. — Things seem sort of mixed up this 
morning. It's Hanford, — Tompkins, — Ormsbee, and I don't know how many 
more, and neither do I care. I suppose some people would swear at such 
times, possiljly they find relief, but I hardly think it, and don't think I will 
commence at this late day (Enter Hanford, looking:, towards Tompkins). 
Why, who is that? — Well, if thai is not that Hanford !)ack again. Probably 
hard for him to break away. — Think I will be going home (Cors to liis home 
at the zcidozvs). 

[Enter Tompkins) 

TOMPKINS— (/'*ro;// the store stoop) Hello, Hanford— back again, I 
see. What's up? (ITalks over to where the others are) 

(Enter Amanda, enter Sarah, from hottse) 

HANFORD — Nothing much, only when about a mile or more out of town, 
the axle of the stage broke, and we all had a nice tumble. No, I didn't get 
hurt much, will be all right in a day or so. Much obliged for your sympathy 
But I don't think I shall need any plasters — Do you know, that since I came 
here I have been thinking how nice it would be for me if I only could remain 
for a couple of months with you, I must get (.nit into the country, at least my 
physician says so. 

AMANDA — Why, perhaps so. We have taken city boarders afore this. 
I'll talk it over with Pa and see what he says {Tompkins has now returned 
to the store). I'll step over and see him. Let's all go over. 

(All cross oz'er to the store. Mrs. Tompkins and Mr. Tompkins talk it 
over) 

Well, we'll try and keep you for a while. 

HANFORD — I thank you very kindly for your offer, which I \yill accept, 
and as I like to be busy I will take hold and help you out in the store — be 
■ your clerk — Possibly I could fill that wonderful Hanmicr's place. How 
would that suit you? 

TOMPKINS — Fine, fine, jess what I want, and you'd better git into the 
harness rite away. We'll make it go together all rite. — Now, you see, I have 
got tew go down to Bosting tew be gone for three or four days, or so. Sarah 
and you will have to run the store together, Sarah she'll tell you the prices, 
and you Ink out for the back room. 

(Exit Amanda and Sarah to llieir home) 

(Exit Tompkins to stoic) 

HANFORD — Well, this is luck, a store and a fine looking young lady clerk 
on my hands. — All within a day. I'll own the store and have a claim on the 
young lady inside of two montlis. — This is a good place for me to stay, and 
my disguise will never be known. — Ha ! — Ha ! — my Baltimore friends you'r 
outwitted this time. — Hanford is a real pretty name, I rather like it better 
than my own. Think I will keep it for a while. — Well, I can't be idling this 
way. Oh ! I'll make the old man a fine son-in-law. Some orders to fill 



24 

{reads from memo, booko. Widow Stopwell, one bushel potatoes (takes a 
I'i-ck' basket ami goes over to Mrs. Stol'zceWs. knocks) 

(ll)iier Mrs. Sfopzcell to Iter door) 

Here are the potatoes you ordered. 

WIDOW S. — How many have you? 

HANFORD— One bushel. 

WIDOW S.— One Inishel !— ^'ou had better take them back. I see 
you don't know a peck measure from a bushel l)asket. A very good man for 
Tompkins, but a poor one lor his customers. 

{Exit IVidozv Stopii<cll to her house) 

(Hanford returns to the store) 

HANFORD— Well, I don't blame the old lady, I must be somewhat rat- 
tled, but it's not strange. For I have a great load on my mind to carry. I 
wish I had done differently, but it's too late now. 

(Il.vif Hanford to tlie store) 

{Ilanford is supposed to have been at the store and in the tozvn for some 
fiz'e months or more ) 

(To shoz^' the lapse of time the enrtain ean be dropped for a short space 
of time) 

CURTAIN. 



Act Three 



Scene same as Act II — Not to exceed two minutes duration between Acft 
II and Act III. 

ACT III. 

(Enter Tom f kins from side street toi\.'ards store) 

\ Enter Goodall front the store, earrying bundle in liis hands, loosely tied, 
z^'ifh artieles eoniing out of it. 

DEACON GOODALL— I don't think that clerk of yours is a mite better 
than the last one you had, and the land knows, he was bad enough. Look at 
this bundle if you wisli to see artistic work. Seems as if he had been here 
long enough now to know a thing or two. — Let's see, Tompkins, how long 
has he been here? 

TOMPKINS — He cum here 'bout the fust of the summer, and it's now 
towards cold weather. Why, he must bean here nigh on tew six months, or 
so. — He's a bright sort of a feller, if he didn't git the string on tew your 
bundle just rite. — Does all business for me, jest as well as I'd dew it myself. 

DEACON GOODALL— Well, T am glad yon take to him as well as you 
do, but Tompkins, keep one eye on him, that's my advice to you (Exit 
Goodall to road, left). 

TOMPKINS — That old Goodall is allers puttin" himself in where he ain't 
wanted. — He needn't worry 'bout my business, I'll tend to it myself. — Let- 
terbee says he's an old fossil, and I gess he's 'bout rite. 

(Exit Toinf>kins to the store) 

{Enter Hanford from the store, seats himself on heneh in front of store) 

HANFORD — It hardly seems possible that I have been in this forsaken 
place five months or more, but it's a pretty good place for me to stay, and I'll 
stop here as long as I can. — I don't see what has come over the young lady 
of late. She does not seem to treat me as she did when I first came here. — 
I will have to propose soon, or my chances will be rather slim. 

(Ejtteh Sarah from her home, going totvards store) 

Llere she comes, I'll make the attempt now. It may be my downfall, but 
I'll try it. — Good afternoon. Miss Sarah! I was this moment thinking of you. 

S.ARAH — May 1 inquire as to the nature of your thoughts? 

HANFORD — Sit down on the bench and I will tell you (Miss Tompkins 
is seated as requested) . Well, I was thinking that I did not see as much of 
you as I did when I first came here. You seldom come to the store, and are 
quite distant when I meet you at home. 

SARAH — I was not aware but what I treated you with utmose respect, 
and I know of no good reason why I should not .so continue. 

HANFORD — Yes, I know — but I think yon seem different now than when 
I first came here. Now, Miss Sarah, I have longed for this opportunity and 



26 

I have something which I wish to say to }^ou.— Will you not come into the 
store ? |i 

SARAH — {.-Insing) No, I prcfiT lo remain here and you may proceed. 
HANFORD — It is now some five months or more since I came here and 
since I first met you. I can assure you that it has been a most pleasant part 
of my life, which I. shall always remember with the kindest of thoughts. — 
From the very first I saw you in this store I loved you. Thinking that others 
were the better entitled to that pleasure, I tried hard to forget you but the 
more I endeavored to do so the deeper I found myself in love with you, until 
you were constantly before me and ever on my mind, and I must confess that 
I love you as dearly as life itself. Trusting that it is acceptable to you, and 
now Miss Sarah. I — 

SARAH — Sir — I fail to understand you, and think I have listened to all 
I wish to hear. 

HANFORD — BiU, Miss Tompkins, I wish you to hear me through first. 
Will you not ? 

SARAH — Well, proceed, if you nuist. 

HANFORD — I have remained here thinking the time would come when 
I might claim you as my wife, and so I now ask you if I cannot have that 
pleasure? 

SARAH — (Excited) Why, Sir, the audacity I have not before listened 
too. — It is an in'sult. but on my father's account I forgive you, but it must 
not be repeated. 

{Sarah starts to go home. Icuz'ing Jlaiiforcl. who niters the store) 

(Bitter Ncivcoiiniier from street in rear of post oMee) 

NEWCOMMER— Well. Miss Tompkins, you seem somewhat excited, 
evidently something on your mind which troubles you ; shall I not accompany 
you home? 

SARAH— Ye.s— No— I don't think 1 am excited. Why, yes I would be 
pleased to have your company. 

(They cross the green togetlier to7oards Tom/^lcins house) 

I am not excited but mad through and through. The boldness of some 
peoi)le is surprising and unbearable, and I will not stand it any longer. — No, 
I cannot tell you, I wish I could — do not a.sk me. 

(A'^OTc at Tompkins' house) 

NEWCOMMER— Miss Sarah, I am sorry for you, as I think I am aware 
of some of the trouble you are laboring under, and I wish I could help you 
out of your difficulties. Perhaps I could were you to allow me to do so. — 
Sarah, I have long wished lo have a talk with you as I have on my "mind a 
few words I would be pleased to have you listen to. — Since we first met at 
the Fourth of July picnic, we have been the best of friends. — Our walks, our 
drives and our fishing trips have been to me moments of pleasure and made 
life worth living. The remembrance of which has been cherished never to 
be forgotten. It was on one of these walks that you picked from our path- 
way a simple flower — a violet — Sparkling Avith the dew of heaven and sweet 
with the fragrance nature gave it. Placing it in the button hole of my coat 
bade me wear it. — I obeyed, and when I took it from where you placed it 



27 

pressed it between the leaves of a much thought of book. Keeping it as a 
token of friendship which I hoped would some day ripen into true love and 
affection for the one who had cared so tenderly for it. — It was not because 
the flower was different from others, that it became so prized. Not because the 
drives and walks were where the handiwork of the Supreme reigned in all its 
glory. — Where the hills, the stream and the meadows alike were so beautiful, 
and nature in all its forms complete. But because of the company with whom 
I was so pleasantly associated. — One whom I not only respected but dearly 
loved. Longing to call my own, and as a companion to walk with hand in hand 
through the vicissitudes of life.— Could I but have that pleasure my fondest 
hopes would be realized and my happiness complete.— Sarah, it is you who 
has been the attraction, you who has made Silentdale a heaven to me.— It is 
you I wish for a wife, a companion, and as such can you not consent to be? 

SARAH — Oh, Mr. Newcommer ! I am sorry you asked me that question, 
ior I cannot now give you an answer. — I respect you, I — I — I — no you do 
not understand me, so you must not press me for an answer. — If circum- 
stances were different ; if father was — but Oh ! I cannot tell you. 

NEWCOMMER— Very well. Miss Sarah, I will respect your wishes.. 
Good-bye. — 

(Exit A'czn'coimncr to- IVidozv Stofyu'cll's Iiousc) 

(Exit Sarah to her ozcii Iwiiic) 

(Enter Hanford from the store) 

HANFORD — That was somewhat of a turndown I received, but I ex- 
pected u, it's always that way at first. — I'll win out in the end. — The old 
man's on my side and that's a good card if I play it well. — But there's one 
thing that's got to l)e done if I succeed, and that's to get rid of that young 
minister. He's a — nuisance around here and the quicker he's away the bet- 
ter it will be for me. — Let me see — Let me see. — How will I fix him — I have 
it. I will send for Bill Manns. Think he can help me out of it. — Guess I 
have pulled the till for enough cash to pay him. (takes note book from itis 
pocket, tears out a leaf and in'rites) 
Dear Mr. Manns. 

I wish to see you soon. Come down to the store as soon as you can do so 
and help me out. Big money for little work. 

H.^NFORD. 

That sounds well. Deai^Mr. Manns; did you ever hear of such sweetness? 
— Now, if there is a boy in sight I will send the note up to him (Enter boy). 
Here's one now. Here boy, take this note up to Bill Manns' hut, I will pay 
you when you return. Be quick about it (Exit boy). Now, with him out 
of the way. I don't care how he does it. I'm too sharp to get caught my- 
self, been there before. — Now, with him out of the way. I will simply step in 
claim the beautiful young lady and steal the old man's property. — But if 
Manns should say no. then what? But he won't — at least I'll run the 
chances. Why, here he's coming now (Enter Bill Manns, road left^. Hello, 
Bill ! You got here sooner than I expected — sort of a smart kind of a chap, 
Hey! Hey, my boy? (Hanford seejns glad to see Bill. They are soon seated 
on the bench in front of the store) 



28 

MANNS — Yas, I war "bout dawn bar wben I met the bye and I jest hurried 
up a little, as I didn't know but had a fit on and you wanted me to bring 
you out of it. {Ha, Ha, Ha, laugh). 

HANFORD — Well. Bill, what I wanted to see you about is this man New- 
commer, the minister. — Now, you see there is a nice lot of property here. — 
Tompkins getting old and I could easily have all he has, but in order to do 
so I must marry the girl, Sarah, which you see I cannot do unless I get rid 
of this fool minister, but that I cannot do alone. — Now, I want you to just 
tap him on his head. Just so that he will be able to do business in a for- 
eign country. It will not take much nerve to do it. You have the 
stuff in you for it all right. You see it's not hard work, as I wrote you. — 
What do you think? Will you do it? 

MANNS — No, sir, I won't and thar's the end on it. Why, that man's the 
best friend I ever had in all my life. — We have fished and hunted many a 
day .together and he's a man, every inch of him. I wouldn't harm a hair of 
his head — and you, you ought to be thrown into the pond for ever thinking 
such a thing. — If that's what you want me for I can say to you good-bye for 
allers. Big pay for little work (starts to go., as if angry) 

HANFORD — Here — Here — Here — Come back a second — Come into the 
store for a minute. I have some hot stuff in a cold barrel that will do you 
good, and I want you to try it (aside) (Cucss I can fi.v him all right). 

MANNS— Well, I don't car if I jess luk at it. 

(Exit to store Hanford and Manns) 

(They go into the store quickly, returning, Manns z<.'eU intoxicated) 

(Re-enter Hanford and Manns) 

HANFORD— Pretty good stuff, old fellow. What do you think? 

MANNS — Glorious, glorious. Hoora for Tompkins and his hot stuff in a 
cold barrel. — Jest let me give a war whoop. Whooper up. 

HANFORD— About that we were talking? See this. Bill? (takes a roll 
of bills from his pocket, sliozi's it to Bill) How would you like to take this 
home with you. Hey, old boy? 

MANNS — I'd like it, t'would carry me through the winter, and it's getting 
cold already — Jest let me put my hands on it. 

HANFORD — Let us fix it up about the minister, perhaps we can. What 
do you say? 

MANNS— Well, go ahead with your propositioH. 

HANFORD — Well, as I told you, I want you to get this minister out of 
the way, and if you will do the job, why here's fifty dollars to bind the bar- 
gain, and a hundred dollars more when the job's done. — Little work and big 
money. How's that suit you now? 

MANNS — I don't want to do the job, but I kin accommodate you, I 
guess. — War's your money? 

HANFORD— (//fl»rf.y him some Confederate bills. Bill looks at them 
closely) 

MANNS— See har, this Confederate money no good around har. And 
didn't you know this ere Federal bank of Baltimore is busted. Some cracks 
got in, shot the watchman, blew up the bank and got all thar was in it. The 



29 

minister read it to me at the time of it. and he said that there was big 
money offered for the bugglars arrest and I have been Inking for the man 
that done it. You don't suppose he's any whar round har, do ye? 

{Haiiford serins greatly startled at this information but quickly turns it 
off) 

HANFORD — (Aside) (Heavens, is it true that this is knozvn up here in 
this forsaken spot; if so, think I had better keep rather shady, and I had bet- 
ter burn these bills at once). Why, I know it. I gave you the wrong bills. 
I'll get some others out of my desk inside (aside) (there is seventy dollars 
in the draiver, I can take fifty all right, the old man zvill never miss it). 

(Steps into the store and gets the bills, returning quickly) 

Here, these will suit you better. — Oh, take them, don't be so chicken- 
hearted — Take this bottle home with you, it will be nice for an inside bath. 
Hey, old boy ! Cheer up now, old fellow ! Don't squeal now. Show you 
have got some sand about you. 

MANNS — I'll do it 'cause I said I would, and when Bill Manns says a 
thing, he'll do it. — His word is as good as gold. — I won't lie, I'll fix him for 
you and you have the hundred ready, 'cause I'll be arter it in a day or so. — 
No, I won't — bars your money — I don't want it — 

(Gives the bills a throzv and quickly makes a grab and picks them up) 

Yas, I will — You see, it's mighty windy and I came near loosing this ere 
money — Good-bye, Hanford. 

HANFORD— Good-bye, Bill. 

(Both shake hands — Slozv curtain) 



Act Fovir 



Scene i — Street scene in Benton. 

Scene 2 — Interior of Tompkins' residence at Silentdale. 

{Enter Miss Henderson and Miss Ormsbec, right) 

{Enter Havniicr, left) 
. . {Hammer supposed to be on his zcay to the banking Jiouse of Henderson, 
where he is employed. Meets the ladies on the street, they being out shop- 
ping. Enters reading notice of court decision) 

BEN — Good morning, ladies. Am pleased to see you this bright morning. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Yes, we thought of a few articles we wished to 
take with us on our trip, which we had nearly forgotten, and so are out 
makmg our purchases. — 1 think we shall have a most delightful time. — 
It is such a beautiful ride, and we have a perfect day for it. 

MISS ORMSBEE — I shall enjoy it as much as either of you, as it is 
nearly six months since I came here. It will seem good to set my foot in 
Silentdale once more. — Yes, I like it here ever so much, and would dislike to 
settle down there again, but I had many a warm friend there and shall enjoy 
seeing them so much. — Say, Ben ! Don't it seem funny to think our old 
friends, the Deacon and the Widdow, are to marry? 

BEN — I don't know. — I thought before I came here that the Deacon 
was casting eyes that way, and the Widdow, she always had a good word for 
him. — I shall never forget how the Deacon used to shew her old turkey home, 
how careful he was with it. "Step forward," he would say. It could get 
into his garden and scrr<tch everything up. It was just the same. — But if 
Tompkins' hens got in there, things were most decidedly different, and the 
hens went over the fence as if they were at a hurdle race, and the way the 
Deacon wuld talk about those "tarnal hens" — Oh, we had a pretty good time 
up there, didn't we? and I don't blame you for wishing to look at the place 
once more. I do myself. — I only hope Miss Henderson that you and your 
father will enjoy it equally as well. It will do him good to get away from 
the office. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Oh, we will, I know, for I had such a lovely time 
when up there with you last summer, and father, he knows nearly all of the 
people there, they do business with him. you know. He is as pleased to go 
as a boy would be. What time are we to start? 

BEN — At one o'clock sharp. So be ready, botli of you. 

MISS ORMSBEE— Don't you worry. We will not keep you waiting (all 
say good-bye and separate) 

{Exit Miss Onnsbce, right) 

BEN — {calls to Miss Henderson) Miss Henderson — just a minute, 
please {Miss Henderson leaves Miss Ormsbee, zi'ho passes off the stage, 
returning to Hammer). Say, Ethel, do you know that I am the happiest this 
morning of all mv life? 



31 

ETHEL HENDERSON— I thought you looked unusually happy, but 
thought it was because you were going home. — Tell me your good news. 
Won't you? 

BEN — Well, Ethel, I have just received word from the Judge of the 
Court that I had a decision in my favor, and there is no appeal from it. So 
Mr. Tompkins will be obliged to turn over the house, the rest of the prop- 
erty besides paying me for the use of it. Don't it seem too good to be true, 
to think I have my old home again ? I will have it repaired and put in the best 
of order, and it will make such a delightful summer home. — But there is one 
thing more wanted to make my happiness complete, and that is you. — You 
know I love you dearly and would sacrifice all for you, and if you would 
only consent to be my wife I would be the happiest being in Benton. So I 
ask you will you not consent? 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Oh, Ben ! I am so glad you have your old home 
again, as I know it has been the desire of your life. But as to my becoming 
your wife, why Ben, I — I — L — I will tell you when we get to Silentdale this 
afternoon. That will answer, will it not? No! If I should say yes, would 
that make you feel better? — Well, yes, Ben, you dear boy, if it will make you 
feel happier, as your happiness is mine. — But you ought to be ashamed of 
yourself for makmg love on the street. 

BEN — Never mmd the street, but Ethel, your answer has made me 
the happiest being in existence. Good-bye. — Yes, you may tell Ruth about 
the house. — Oh, yes ! about the other if you wish. 
(Exit Ethel Henderson, I'iglit, exit Hammer, left) 
CURTAIN RISES. 
SCENE 2. 
(Inferior of the Tompkins' home — Tompkins sitting at a table, right) 
TOMPKINS— (//oW.y letter in his hand) Well, a decision of the court 
has been reached, and it's final. — Hammers won out and I must hand over 
the property besides paying him a good round sinn of money. — I can give 
.him the property but I caiTt pay the money. — Everything I have is as if it 
were in a leaky boat, ready to sink — and how can I save it. — The store will 
soon be closed and all I will have left will be this old home, and I doubt if I 
can keep even this much longer. — My only salvation is for Sarah to marry 
Hanford — but she don't like him — but perhaps she will. I'll talk it over with 
her. Sarah, you there? 
(Enter Sarali, left 2) 

SARAH — Yes, I was getting things ready for our party, for you know, I 
have invited the people at Mrs. Stopwell's over. There will be — Ben — and 
Ruth — Miss Henderson and her father — besides the Deacon and his intended ; 
— so we will have a pleasant time, won't we? You close the store up early 
so as to be with us. — We will have a little dance. Letterbee said he would 
come over and play his violin for us, and we will have a grand time. 

TOMPKINS — Sarah, I want tew talk with you once more about Mr. Llan- 
ford — Now, I think he's sech a nice man, I like him and I can't see why you 
don't — You know he would like to marry you — He seems to have money, 
which I need. Business is agin me and everything looks dark and I don't 



3^ 

know how I shall be able to save anything.— The help which he would give 
were he your husband, would keep me from ruin. — Won't you do it for me? 

SARAH— Father, as much as I love you I could not do it.— I would rather 
see you loose every cent you have than to be married to him, and with these 
hands, and with the education you so kindly gave me. I would work and toil 
week in and week out for you and mother, as I know we would all be hap- 
pier than to have that scoundrel as my husband. 

TOMPKINS — How do you know he is sech a bad picture as you make 
him ? 

SARAH — Father, I think he is deceiving you — He is not the moneyed man 
you think. — Here he has been all summer and not a single cent has he paid 
for his board or lodgings. He has done nothing but live on you, and if I 
must say it, I think the money in your drawer would have been greater if 
you had handled it yourself. 

(Kauford is seen standing at the doorway listening, center) 

TOMPKINS— Sarah, Sarah, you must not talk so. 

SARAH — But. my dear father, let me tell you. he knows well your finan- 
cial condition, but why does he stay — Simply thinking the time would come 
when I would come into possession of the thirty thousand dollars which 
grandmother left me and which will come into my hands some three years 
hence. He thinks that he may still by his flatter of you be able to claim me 
as his wife. But let me tell you that time will never come. I would rather 
be sleeping beneath the willows in yonder church yard than to be his bride 
(zi'ccps) 

TOMPKINS — There. There, Sarah, you arc excited. — Don't cry. 

(E.rif Tompkins and Sarah, left 2) 

{Both z^'alk off the stage — Tompkins zvitli his arm around Sarah) 

{Enter Han ford) 

(Hanford, u'ho has been standing listening at the door, ;;otc' enters) 

HANFORD — (Comes dozvn stage) Some fine amateur theatricals, I see 
— Rather fair acting — but it needs the villian to make it a success — (sits at 
table, picks ttp a book, looks through quickly) Thirty thousand dollars in 
the air. Pley — That's news — much obliged for the information — guess it's 
worth waiting for, and they'll find me here for a while longer — Big board 
bill staring me in the face — that>'s easy. Why, down South we just wipe 
those out and start new, and I guess I can do the same here — I don't see 
what has become of Bill Manns — Thought he'd had the minister under the 
willows before this. — Under the willows — weeping ones I suppose — well, 
something will weep one of these days and it won't be the willows either. 

(Enter Tompkins) 

TOMPKINS— (iVotc entering the room) Hanford, I have jess bean talk- 
ing to Sarah a lettle, but she's pretty stubborn yet. — You know these girls 
are most all that way. It takes a long time tew git notions out of their heads. 

HANFORD — Don't get discouraged and don't overdo it. Just leave it to 
me a while longer and it will come our way. You see, in sojne cases it takes 
time and perseverance to accomplish results, and so in this case, with a little 



33 

more time {zvliich I have) I think it will come out all right. So don't 
worry. — 

{Enter Amanda, right 2) 

AMANDA.— Azariah, Azariah.. You'r getting quite deaf lately, and you'd 
better have your ears looked arter, fore it's tew late. Letterbee jest sent up 
word that the strings tew his bow had busted and he's going over to the 
barn, to pull a few hairs out the old white hoss'es tail. — Now. Azariah 
Tompkins you had better go out to the barn jest as quick as you can, for you 
know jest what will happen if he gits there fust, and if he does there won't 
be any music at Tompkins' tonight. Mr. Hanford, you had better go along 
tew, cause it may need both of you to bring him hum (Exit Toint^kins and 
Hanford, right 2) 

{Amanda setting the furniture in order for the party) 

{A^oise must be made to represent horse kicking Letterbee) 

AMANDA — I suppose that the folks will be here soon and I'll jest pick 
up a little. What on airth ails that niggar? {Sam is heard laughing) 

{Enter Sam, right 2) 

SAM— {Still laughing hard) Ha— Ha Ha— Ha— Ha— Ha— Ha— 

AMANDA — Sam, for goodness .sake, what ails you — Will you stop your 
laughing — {Sam still laughing hard as ever) You niggar. if you don't stop 
your nonesense I'll shake you till you'r white. 

SAM — I'se no niggar. I'se just as white as that fool Hanford am {breaks 
out in a hearty laugh again) Misses Tompkins, did you hear the 'splosion? 

AMANDA— No, Sam, what was it? 

SAM — It was jess am dis, dat Letterbee war down in de barn pulling 
hairs out of old Bill's tail, when dar was an advance backward and the 
'splosion occurred, and Massa Letterbee went through the side of the barn. 
Oh, yes. Misses, he'll be to the party but you won't know him when you 
sees him. 

AMANDA — Well. Sam, I am glad that we'll have the music tonight — but 
did he get hurt much? 

SAM — No. Missus, he done just got shook up some, but he'll knowed bet- 
ter next time. 

{Exit Sam, laughing, right 2) 

AMANDA — Well, I am real glad he didn't get hurt much, cause if he'd 
got killed we'd had to gone without our letters for a long time, but I sup- 
pose Deacon Goodall would have taken the job as hes been looking for it for 
.1 good while, but Letterbee's got a hold on it yet. — I wonder what that let- 
ter be that Azariah's bean reading so much today? Something's gone wrong 
and he's worrying a deal 'bout it. I knowed it by his looks. He can't fule 
Amanda Tompkins, but he ortcr confide more in his lawful wife. — Sarah, 
you *bout ready? 'Cause it's 'bout time for the folks to be cummin' and you 
orter be here to receive them, and I jess wan't to arrange my tie-let a lettle. 

{Enter Sarah, left 2) 

SARAH — Yes. I am ready now, mother, and you can finish your dressing. 

AMANDA — Sarah, you come pretty nigh not having any music tonight. 

LOfC. 



34 

Letterbee went fooling around the old white hoss in the dark — but vSam says 
he'll be here to play. 

(Exit Amanda, riglit 2) 

SARAH — I was in hopes that we would have a most enjoyable time to- 
night, but I hardly feel in the spirit of it at present — I will try to look 
as if I were happy and they will be none the wiser. — At heart I am sad, sad. 
The world, which once looked bright and pleasant, now seems dark and void. 
The cloud hovering over this house must soon engulf us all within its mists 
of despair. My poor parents ! What will become of them. — My poor father, 
blind to the truth, still believes that Hanford a saint, and is doing all he can 
to convince me I am wrong and should marry him. Must I do it? No, 
never. — I do not see what has become of Mr. Newcommer, I hardly see him 
except on Sundays, in his pulpit. I do hope he has not forgotten me, for 
that would break my heart. I love him and can not help it. Soon he is to 
leave here and go to Benton, then I shall seldom see him. Miss Ormsbee, 
she too is there, possible they may become as friendly as they were before I 
came home. — Only for the encouragement I receive from Mrs. Stopwell I 
would hardly care what became of me, but the dear old soul tries hard to 
cheer me up. 

{Enter Hanford, right 2) 

HANFORD — Good evening. Miss Sarah, all ready for the party I see, and 
if you will allow me I must say you never looked as sweet in all your life 
(Sarah turns her back on him) There can no longer be any doubts as to 
who is the best looking young lady in Silentdale. — Sarah, I am only sorry 
tnat you will not reconsider and say that you will become my bride, as you 
know I love you as dearly as life, again I ask you, will you not ? 

(As he says the last fezc zvords lie endeaz'ors to place liis arm about her 
icaist) 

SARAH — Mr. Hanford, this I must consider an insult. You have had my 
answer before and it is unnecessary to again repeat it. If you have not be- 
fore understood me you certainly had a grand opportunity when you were 
listening at that door to the conversation between my father and myself, as 
I saw your reflection in the glass. Something a gentleman would not be 
guilty of, but I am not surprised, I expect anything from you. 

(Bell rings) (Sarali steps to the door and allozvs the visitors to enter) 

(Enter center door, Mr. Henderson. Miss Henderson. Deacon Goodall, 
Widozu Stopzvell, Miss Ormsbee and Ben Hammer. — Sarah shakes hands and 
zvelcoir^cs all except) Mr:- Henderson, zi'hom she lias not met before. Ham- 
mer steps quickly to the rescue, )naking the introduction) 

(Henderson also endeavors to make himself agreeable zcitli all) 

BEN — Pardon me, Miss Tompkins, I think I shall have to be the one to 
break the ice, Mr. Henderson — Miss Tompkins. I supposed 3'ou were 
acquainted long ago. 

HENDERSON — I am pleased to meet you. Miss Tompkins. Miss Orms- 
bee and Mr. Hammer have spoken of you so many times that already I felt 
myself acquainted with you. 

SARAH — I trust we may meet often during the evening, and that you 



35 

Avill enjoy yourself (Enter Tompkins and Amanda, right 2) Here is 
mother and father, you are acquainted with them, I believe ? 

HENDERSON — Yes, we are old acquaintances. 

{Sam is in and out as lie sees fit) 

(Tompkins, Hanford and Amanda near front of stage — Henderson joins 
them) 

AMANDA — Ben's dewing pretty well, ain't he, Mr. Henderson? 

HENDERSON — I am pleased to say that he is. I consider him an ideal 
young man and I prize him highly. He certainly is a success thus far and I 
am glad to know that you raise such bright boys in Silentdale. 

AMANDA — That's jest what I been savin" to Azariah, but somehow he 
and Hanford don/'t seem tew think so ; Azariah, he sorts of dislikes Ben 
'cause he sued him about the old house, but if Azariah had gone 'cordin to 
scripture there would have been no sech work, and Ben would had what be- 
longed to him without all the fuss. The golden rule ain't a bad thing to go 
by at sech times (Hammer nozc joins the party — Amanda and Henderson 
ivitlidraiv to one side, leaving Hammer, Tompkins and Hanford togetlier). 

TOMPKINS — Well, Hammer. I 'spose you fell mighty smart, now you 
have got the old hum back again. It's prutty near ready to fall in and I 
don't think you will find it much of an heir loom. Hardly fit for a barn, 
but you got in sech a hurry and said I was robbin' you, so I jess thought I 
would let you fight it out and get it if you could. I'd gin it tew you if you 
had only waited. 

HANFORD— I do not think, Mr. Hammer, that you treated Mr. Tomp- 
kins quite right, hardly showed the respect due him. 

BEN — Mr. Hanford, to you I would say that you are not in a posi- 
tion to critisize and I do not think it is anything concerning you, and Mr. 
Tompkins I would say that if you will recall the answer you wrote to my 
first letter you will probably notice that it sort of conflicts with the statement 
you have just made, but we are not here to have differences, so we will not 
•discuss the subject any more tonight (They note separate). 

(Miss Henderson, Miss Onnsbee and Sarah are together in a group) 

SARAH — Mrs. Stopwell, where is Mr. Newcommer? All are here but 
liim — He said he would be sure to come. 

WIDOW S. — He expected to have been here with ns. Init the old 
lady Thurston, who lives up beyond, is very low and sent for him. He said 
he would be here as soon as he could, and that he was sorry for the delay. 

SARAH — I hope he will be able to come. I will send Sam up after him 
with the team. 

ETHEL HE'NDERSON— I suppose we will have your Mr. Newcommer as 
our pastor soon, I think he bids farewell here next Sabbath, but I presume 
you will dislike to loose him.— I will invite you all down to Benton some 
Sunday, take lunch with us, go to church, hear your old pastor preach, also 
Ruth sing, perhaps it will make you think of Silentdale. If the minister 
does his part preaching as well as she does singing he will be a. success, for 
she certainly does her part to perfection. 

MISS ORMSLEE — Be careful, Ethel, I am afraid vou are overdoing it a 



36 

little, for I am not the ideal you make me. 

SARAH — Your speaking of singing suggests a song here, some old tune,^ 
one we can all sing. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Good. Let us try one. What do you say, Ruth? 

MISS ORMSBEE — I am willing, if I do not have to sing any solos. 

SARAH — We will not have any solos but some song we all knov>'. Have 
one now while we are waiting for Letterbee. I suppose you know why he is 
delayed. — What do you say to our having a song? 

Several — Good. 

SONG. 

{Enter Lctterbcc, right 2, looking as if he liad been injured, all notice him 
and break out into a laugh) 

LETTERBEE — I — I come here to give you some music, not to be laughed 
at, and Lll go back hum. 

AMANDA — There, Sylvanus, don't get so riled. They'll stop their laugh- 
ing if you will start to play. I am real glad you didn't get hurt much. 

LETTERBEE — I don't know what you call gettin' hurt much, but I am 
prutty near dead and am as black all over as that darn nigger of yours. 

(All gather around Letterbee in a sympathetic zcay trying hard not to 
laugh ) 

ni stay, but you'll have 1o stop your laughing — for Vm darn touchy bout 
it. and Deak Goodall, I don't know as it's a mite wus gittitV kicked by a boss 
than it is to git married. You can git rid of a boss kick but you can't a wife. 
— If 3'ou'r all ready, take partners for the quadrille. 

(Ben and Ethel. 
Hanford and Amanda. 
Deacon and Widoiv Stopzcell form in) 

TOMPKINS — Come, Henderson, you and Ruth got to jine in — Sarah and 
me 11 watch you this time, we'll be in it fore you git through. 

DANCE. 

(Enter Sam, center door) 

(During the height of the dance Sam ruslics in as if scared and greatly 
excited, goes through several emotions before he ca)i collect Iiimsclf, dance 
stops suddenly and all seem interested as to the cause of Sam's outbreak) 

AMANDA — (Catching hold of him and giving him a shake) Sam, what's 
the matter with you? Are you hurt? Speak up. 

SAM — No, Misses, I'se not hurt, but the Parson am, he am, and somebody 
.say he am nearly dead. 

WIDOW S.— Why, Sam. what is it? 

SAM — Why, tey find him up by the "turn of the ribber" with his head 
all cut up and he can'i say a word. He look jest like he am dead, and dey 
just done took him into your house. 

(Those belonging at Mrs. Stopz^'Cll's home start zcitli a hurry for her 
home, (exit center door) leaving the Tompkins' people as if bennldered, 
Hanford seen standing zeifh liis back to the others and zcith a most satisfied 
expressio)i upon his C( unfenance) 

CURT AIM. 



Act Five 



Scene i — Henderson's parlor at Benton. 

(Time since Act III, otic year — Henderson's home at Benton- — Parlor of 
Mr. Henderson — Henderson and Miss Henderson seated at table — Mr. Hen- 
deson zvith paper in his hand, Ethel zvith book in hers) 

HENDERSON — Ethel, I suppose tomorrow will be the happiest day 
of your life, as it will be your wedding day and it ought to be the brightest 
of them all. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— And yours too. father. Will it not be a happy 
one for you? 

HENDERSON— Yes, Ethel, it will, but with me it is different. You have 
had nothing to even cloud the happiness of your life. Everything has been 
bright to you. with nothing to mar a single pleasure. I am happy that it has 
been so and 1 trust it will so continue. — When I think of the days when I was 
a boy alone in the world, with not a single spot to call home. Working hard 
early and late, striving to earn a little to lay by for the education I was so 
anxious to acquire. ]\Ieeting with the ups and downs of business life, then 
I realize that my life has not been all the happiness the picture would make it. 

ETHEL HENDERSON Are you sorry that I am to marry? We will 

be here just the same. 

HENDERSON — No, Ethel, I am not sorry but I am glad. Marriage is a 
part of life, without it life is a failure, and I am more than pleased that you 
have selected such a good and noble man for your husband. Be true to each 
other and happiness through life will be the result. The greatest blessing 
one can receive. — Ben has been with us some five years or more, coming here 
as a country boy with all his belongings in an' old carpet bag, but with a 
heart overflowing with honesty and a head full of common sense. Willing 
to work and ever alert to the sense of duty. — He has put to shame those who 
ridiculed him and called him country. They are at the same desks today. 
This noon I informed them that commencing at once the firm would be 
known as Henderson & Hammer, as I have today made him an equal part- 
ner with me. He has well earned his promotion and is entitled to his reward. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Oh, father, how kind you are. and won't he be 
happy though. If he isn't LIl just pull his ears for him. 

{Ethel appears as very much elated) 

Father, you ought to be happy too, for I am so glad to think you are to 
marry Ruth, as I love her almost as much as you do yourself, and I know 
her to be a noble. Christian woman. Just the one to make you a companion, 
for you will be a little lonesome when I am married, and sometimes will 
need someone to cheer you up and make you smile, just so you won't have 
the blues over business cares, and Ruth will be just the one to do it. I am 
glad the minister did not marry her, I had rather you would. 



HENDERSON — Yes, my daughter, she is all you picture her, and I be- 
lieve her to be the ideal, and I know we will get along nicely together ; even 
though it seems all happiness to us. yet we should not forget your dear 
mother who some five years ago we laid so gently and peacefully at rest. She 
was to me the dream, the realization of happiness. — Were she here tomorrow 
you would receive a mother's blessing, which now must come to you in 
spirit only. There. There, do not cry (Ethel drops her head upon table and 
sobs — Ji'hile Henderson wipes his eyes) There, child, don't cry, I am sorry 
I made you feel so badly. 

(Enter Sain (center), nuiv Henderson's butler, bringing in a satchel 
marked in large-sized letters, "Tompkins, SHentdale, Conn." and sets it dozen 
in a prominent place) 

SAM — Massa Henderson, Mr. Munroe, the stageman. say he just want to 
spoke to you, and dat he can't leave his colts to cum in. 

(Exit Henderson, center) 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Sam, how do you like it hei-e in Benton ?> 

SAM — Oh, Missus Henderson, I like it heah. Don't hab to done so much 
work as up at Tompkins", I jess hab to keep moving all the time up dar. 
Heah it am so easy that I gets asleep thinking what I'se gwine to do next. — 
Oh, yes, I like it heah. — I'se glad I'se gwine to see Ben married cause Ben 
and myself we's sort of chums up in Silentdale. Yes, and Ben he was al- 
ways up to jokes, he was. Yes, 'em one day he say, "Ben, can you cotch a 
live mouse that's in the trap in your hand?" I says, I'se not aferd of any 
mouse I'se cotch him for you. Den he say, '"Sam, you cotch de mouse and 
put it in Deacon Goodall's coat pocket, den we's see the fun, and so we did, 
and when the old man put his hand into his pocket for his 'kerchief den dis 
yer chile just thought was bout time to move, but Ben he just done nuthing 
but laflf and laff till the Deacon done got mad and went home. Oh, yes, 
Ben, he likes fun. He do. I sort of 'spects I'se gwine to get married my- 
self someday. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Who is to be the happy lady. Sam. 

SAM — Miss Evelina Johnson am her name, and she am juss as putty as 
she looks. 

ETHEL HENDERSON— Well, Sam, I only hope you will be happy. You 
remain here and attend to the door. I promised Ruth I would call for her. 
I will return soon — Our Silentdale friends will be here soon and no doubt 
you will be glad to see them. 

(Exit Ethel, left 2 E) 

SAM — It am a lucky day when Ben took me heah. — do nuthing but eat and 
sleep and wear good clothes. — I'se a gemman, I am, and Miss Evalina John- 
son, if you wish to retain me as your lubber you'es jus done got to put more 
style into your general appearance. But I'se sorry for the old Massa and 
Missus, deed I am — Dey's loss all and de sheriff say de old home got to go 
tomorrow (Sam blubbers) and I'se dunno what's will become of them. But 
I gess it am de only way dey will get rid of that Hanford. — He's already eat 
them up — He's a thief — He's a liar — He's a (door bell rings) (Sam attends 
to the door. Annojoices z'isitors. Hammer enters from side entrance) 



39- 

{Enter {center) Tompkins, Amanda, Sarah, Hanford, Deacon and Mrs. 
Goodall) , 

BEN — I am glad to see you here — I was afraid something would 
happen so you could not all come, but you are all here and I am glad you are. 
Silentdale people have a warm place with me. 

TOMPKINS — Did our setchel git here yit. We sent it down by the stage 
as thar wasn't room fur it with us. 

BEN— Yes, it is here, and Sam will take it up to your room for you. Sam, 
show our friends to their rooms so they may lay aside their wraps. 

AMANDA — Sam, you keep it right side up for Sylvanus got some lina • 
ment in it and you might spill it. He's got the roomatism now. 

HANFORD — Here, Sam, don't you know how to carry a satchel? Take 
it up this way — You don't know any more than you did. You are a niggar 
yet, I see 

{Sam looks at Hanford as if very tigly but says nothing) 

{Exit Sam zvith grip, folloivcd by Silcntdalc people) 

{Exit right, 2 E) 

BEN — This is a happpy day for me. I little thought when I came here 
that I would be so fortunate, but I have worked hard and tried to do 
right. — Mr. Henderson has been very kind to me and now has given me his 
daughter. — I am sorry all cannot feel as happy as I do. — Poor Sarah, I am 
sorry for her. and I don't see why her father persists in keeping Hanford 
there. He worries Sarah and she may yet marry him to please her father, 
but I hope not — Ruth is happy too, and I am glad she has done so nicely — 
She is a prize for anyone. 

{Enter Sam, right 2) 

SAM — I'se glad Massa Hammer your's done so well, and Pse glad Fse 
here to see you get married, Pse will joy it, I will. 

BEN — I am pleased to think you can be here, Sam, for we have been good 
friends and I never forget them. You stay here Sam. 

{Enters (right 2 E) Silentdalc people as har'ing returned from their rooms, 
7vhere they Iiave been to lay off their zvraps) 

TOMPKINS — Wall, Sam, you luk mighty slick, you'll do as well as Ben 
if you stay here long enough. 

HANFORD— He'll have to change his color a little first. 

SAM — Yes. I ma}' hab to change my color, but if Pse as black outside as 
some white people am inside, den I'se pretty dark colored, I am. 

AMANDA — Sam, did you know Bill Manns is very sick and I gess thar's 
no hope for him — I heard say that he made some sort of a confession yes- 
terday but no one seems tew know what it's about. 

{Hanford looks startled) 

SAM — That am bad, but if he dies someone else will have a chance to 
catch a fish or two in Snake brook. 
{Exit center door) 
{Hanford motions to Tompkins to step aside, zcliich he does) 

HANFORD — Mr. Tompkins, did you hear anything about Manns making 
some sort of a confession yesterday. I wonder what it was about. 



40 

TOMPKINS— Dunno, didn't hear a word 'bout it. Don't think he's got 
much to confess. He owes me five dollars. He could confess that if he 
wanted tew. — Parson Newcommer was up thar tew day and he may tell us 
'bout it when he gits here tonite. 

Enter left 2 E, iMiss Onnsbcc and Miss Henderson) 

(Shake hands and pleased to sec all) 

AMANDA — Well, Ruth Ormsbee, if I ain't glad tew see you. It's a year 
ago since I seen you last. — How well you dew look. Does you good tew 
live down here, and Ruth you didn't catch the minister arter all. did you? I 
said all the time you wouldn't, but Letterbee said you would, but he don't 
git rite every time. 

MISS ORMSBEE — I am feeling pretty well. I think Benton air agrees 
with me and I have no complaint to make. — As to Mr. Newcommer. I think 
you have the wrong idea. As to our being in love with each other. — I think 
the respect we had for each was mutual. He certainly treated me nicely and 
I in return endeavored to treat him in like manner. — He visited my school 
perhaps more than was necessary. — I possibly went walking and fishing with 
him more than I ought, and perhaps could have learned to have loved him. — 
I was young then, you know. But my best wish for him is to see him mar- 
ried to your Sarah, whom he loves better than all. 

BEN — Mr. Tompkins, I have a few words I wish to say to you — 
You know that when I was a boy you treated me kindly. You gave me a 
place in the store, and I tried to be faithful to you. Mrs. Tompkins, you too 
were just as kind, and many were the times you would call me over to get a 
hot cruller, or a seed cake, just baked, how good they tasted. How kind you 
were to me after mother died. — These acts of thoughtfulness I appreciated 
and have never forgotten. — Mr. Tompkins — I sued you for the recovery of 
the old home, as it was dear to me and I thought it was right I should have 
it, and I am glad that I did so. for had I not it would now be in other hands. 
— You have met with misfortunes and tonight there is a load upon you heavy 
to carry, and I am well aware as to what it is, and I am going to try to 
lighten it a little — Yesterday there came into my possession this note, se- 
cured by a mortgage upon your home, which would have been foreclosed to- 
morrow, but I had it transferred to myself and I now hand it to you as can- 
celled and the old home is still Aunt Amanda's and yours (offers mortgage 
papers). 

TOMPKINS— No Ben— I can't take it— It's dewing too much fur us— but 
Ben, I can't see Amanda leave the old hum. — It would break her heart and 
mine tew, and Ben — for her sake I'll take it (fakes papers) (breaks doii'n) — 
and Ben, I want tew tell my story — I did try to cheat you out of your old 
hum — I thought a^ou wus a boy and wouldn't know the difference — but you 
did — and Ben, all I can say is that I thank you, and 'fore all these folks ask 
your forgiveness for the wrong I did you. 

BEN — You were forgiven long ago, so don't worry about that. 

AMANDA — Ben, I have got to give you a good motherly kiss. You'r a 
good boy, and I alers said it, and I only wish I had one of those seed cakes 



41 

for you now. If Azariah had lived up tew the golden rule like you have, 
Ben, things would have been different for us all. 

SARAH — Ben, I can hardly give you a motherly kiss, but I wan't to thank 
you for your kindness. It will not be very long before I will be in a posi- 
tion to repay you for all you have done. 

HANFORD — Mr. Hammer, I also would like to personally thank you for 
your extreme kindness, as I can assure you that I highly appreciate it. 

BEN — Mr. Hanford. I hardly see why you are so much interested as the 
home, I trust, is for Mr. Tompkins and his family only. 

(Enter Mr. Henderson) 

(Enter Henderson, center door) 

HENDERSON — (Shakes hands and glad to sec all) I am happy to see 
my Silentdale friends here, sort of a reunion, and I think we will have to 
keep them up. — I shall have to apoligize for not being here when you ar- 
rived, but I was detained at the office. It is a year tonight since we were 
at Mr. Tompkins', and Deacon, tomorrow will be your wedding anniversary. 
1 suppose you have got along nicely and are still in the honeymoon . 

DEACON GOODALL— Yes, it will be, we had just spoken about it. We 
are getting along bravely, and as to the honeymoon — I think Mrs. Goodall 
will reply to th.;U. 

(All laugh — laugh on the Deacon) 

MRS. GOODALL — I have no regrets to off'er and am perfectly contented, 
as I trust you will be. I shall ask you the same question at our reunion a 
year from tonight (laugh on Henderson) — But don't you remember that a 
year ago tonight Pastor Newcommer was assaulted. — Poor fellow, how he 
did suffer, but where is he tonight ? 

(Enter Sam, aiiiwttnccs lYezvconinicr) 

(Enter Xez^<connner, center door) 

HENDERSON — A little late, Init we are glad to see you. just the same. 

NEWCOMMER— Yes, I am somewhat late, as usual, but the delay I 
think is excusable as I have the best of an apology to offer. I was at Silent- 
dale today, and when about ready to start homeward one of the "Thurston 
twins" informed me that Bill Manns was sick and not expected to live. So 
I drove up to see the poor fellow, and am thankful I did so. My tardiness 
is chargeable to that trip. 

AMANDA- — Well, I am real glad you went up there as you may know 
something about his confession, and I am anxious tew larn about it. 

NEWCOMMER — The evening sun was slowly sinking behind the western 
hills as I arrived at the old hut where he lay dying. His eyes were closed 
and he was breathing heavil}'. As I entered and spoke his name, his face 
brightened and he tried to extend his hand. "I'm glad you came Parson, I 
thought you would. — It won't be long before Bill Manns hits the long trail 
from which no one ever came back. — I know I ain't done all I ought to have 
in my life, Parson. — If she'd lived it would have been different." — Then he 
told me the story of his younger days. Of a girl he had loved and lost, and 
hope had died within him. — I tried to comfort him by telling him that she 
might be waiting for him on the other side of the river of life. At the words 



42 

River of Lif, he tried to raise himself and said : "That is what I wanted to 
tell you. Parson. — It was at the turn of the river that I — that I" — He gasped 
and could not speak, then slowly his eyes closed. — "Good-bye, Parson, — 
Fam — He sank backward and in another moment the spirit had taken it's 
flight, perhaps to meet its mate in Paradise. 

HANFORD — (Very much agitated) (aside) — If Manns had done his job 
well, you would not have been here tonight with such a beautiful narrative. 
I only wish I had done it myself. 

AMANDA — What dew you suppose Manns wanted tew say? Perhaps it 
was his confession. 

HANFORD— (.4,f!'rft') Think I had better make myself missing, looks as 
if it was going to be a little warm for me. — ril not trouble Sllentdale for 
some time and those very kind people will soon be wondering where their 
lamb has gone, to. 

(Bell rings Sam affeitds the door) 

(Enter officer, center door) 

HOLDUP — Mr. Henderson, I believe. — You will pardon me for the in- 
trusion, but I have a duty to perform, which will interrupt you but a moment 
(Hanford surmises and moves towards the door). Mr. Hanford, one. 
moment, please, I am compelled to arrest you as being an accomplice in the 
assault of Mr. Newcommer, as confessed by Manns yesterday. 

HANFORD — (Jl'ith assumed case) Well, if that is not a fine joke. — Mr. 
Tompkins, I presume you will become bondsman for me? , 

TOMPKINS— No, sir.— I'll be darned if I will. 

(Hanford looks surprised that Tompkins should turn him down) 

HOLDUP — Mr. Hanford, I have a question I wish to ask you. 

HANFORD — Well, you may. Something more about the confession, I 
suppose. 

HOLDUP— Arc you acquainted with— EVERETT SEARLES? 

(Hanford makes bold attempt to escape. Officer points revolver at him) 
One step and you are a dead man. 

(Party all greatly alarmed and excited. Sam stands near Hanford zvith 
clenched fists) I have papers for your extradition sugned by the Governor 
of the State of Maryland, to answer to the robbery of the Federal Bank of 
Baltimore and the murder of its watchman (Steps up and puts handcuffs on 
Hanford) — Come. — 

HANFORD — I am sorry to leave you — Hope you will have a most beautiful 
wedding — and Tompkins, trust you will enjoy Hammer's gift — ^^Good-bye, 
Sarah, I hate to leave you, but the minister can take my place. — Bye-bye 
(shakes his hand as he passes out) 

(Exit Hanford and officer, center door) 

SAM — Good-bye to dat old rubbish — hope he'll done got de rope round 
his neck. 

SARAH — (Rushing to Mrs. Goodall and throzcing lier arms about Iter) 
You are the real detective in the case and you have done your part well — 
You have saved us all and I love you dearly for it (kisses her). 



43 

MRS. GOODALL— Yes. Sarah. I do feel as if your life had been 
spared. — The very first I saw Hanford I was eonvinced he was not the gen- 
tleman he pretended to be, but was here under false pretense, which has now 
been proved to us. — I followed by letter each slightest clew obtainable until 
I finally succeeded in finding the right. Which has now saved you a life of 
misery and given him his just deserts. 

NEVVCOMMER — Miss Tompkins, is Mrs. Goodall the only person here? 

SARAH — No — You are here too (Sarali and Nczvcommcr step toivards 
each other and he embraces her by placing Iiis arm about her zvaist). 

NEWCOMMER — One year ago tonight was the darkest of my life and 
the year through which I have passed has been one of torture to my mind. — 
But now the sunshine of happiness breaks through the clouds of despair, 
brightening into realms of peacefulness and bliss, which has at last reunited 
these souls with hearts beating with true love for each, and charity for all. 

(The positions during Newcomrnefs closing zvords sliould bes Nczvcom- 
mcr and Sarah in the center, Henderson and Aliss Ormsbec on one side. 
Hammer and Miss Eihel Henderson on the other. The remainder of the 
party as they choose) 

CURTAIN. 



SEP ««» 



